Big-Box Dream Becomes Reality, Concern In East Harlem
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A big-box store that promises low prices is about to set up shop in East Harlem, despite concerns from some who say the shopping destination will bring an end to the neighborhood's charm. NY1's Rebecca Spitz filed the following report.Construction workers are putting the finishing touches on a colossal structure in East Harlem. The borough's first Costco will open its doors to the public on Thursday.
For many residents, it's a source of local pride.
"I feel very proud they're going to open a store around here," said East Harlem resident Judith Paunetto.
"My daughter does shopping in Costco and she says it's very good so I'm glad they're having one here," said East Harlem resident Rose Flamio.
Costco is part of East River Plaza -- a behemoth new retail center along the FDR drive at 116th Street. It will be the first superstore to open there with Target, Best Buy and Marshals opening early next year.
But what sounds great to some wasn't an easy sell. For years, Community Board 11 has listened to residents' concerns about everything from construction to traffic.
"We're hoping and will continue to work to make sure the residents around here are not negatively impacted by it, but also we look at this as a real opportunity and something that could be very positive for changing the economy of East Harlem," said Community Board 11 Chair Robert Rodriguez.
Despite a lot of pro Costco sentiment in the neighborhood, there are definitely people who are dreading its arrival.
"This is a low rise, low density, low income section of the neighborhood and we're building a mega mall. Basically it's not about we should not have it in my backyard, it shouldn't be in anybody's backyard," said Marina Ortiz of East Harlem Preservation.
Costco is welcoming potential new members at a storefront on Pleasant Avenue -- the same stretch that developers were granted a variance to use as a truck delivery route.
Owners of the buildings say they're still waiting for the new windows they were promised to mitigate the noise and pollution.
"Windows that were put in 35, 40 years ago for a far less vehicular environment are now expected, according to the developer, to withstand diesel particulates and truck noise 24 hours a day, it's ridiculous," said East Harlem building owner Tony Donovan.
Some residents who say they've suffered through Costco's years long construction say in the end, they'll probably join.
"As bad as it is, it's got everything you need. That's the sin of it, it's tempting," said one East Harlem resident.